By Duncan Mackay

Prince Harry Warrior Games Colorado Springs May 11 2013May 11 - Britain's Prince Harry today helped open the 2013 Warrior Games at the United States Olympic Training Centre in Colorado Springs. 


Harry, a Captain in Britain's Blues and Royals of the Household Cavalry Regiment who has undertaken two tours of duty of Afghanistan, took part in the Torch lighting ceremony at the opening of the Games on the third day of his tour to the US.

Harry passed the Torch to Bradley Snyder, a Navy Lieutenant who lost his vision in Afghanistan two years ago, who lit the cauldron.

Harry then helped Snyder, blinded by an improvised explosive device (IED), light the cauldron and was accompanied by four-time Olympic swimming old medalist Missy Franklin.

Snyder had competed in last year's Warrior Games and the won two gold medals in swimming at the Paralympics in London last year, including one on the first anniversary of his accident.

More than 260 wounded, ill and injured service members and veterans took part in the march at the Opening Ceremony.

HRH Prince Harry R joins Missy Franklin and Brad Snyder in lighting the Warrior Games torch during the Opening Ceremony of the Warrior GamesPrince Harry (right) joins Missy Franklin and Brad Snyder in lighting the Warrior Games Torch during the Opening Ceremony in Colorado Springs

"It is tough being at the Warrior Games as an ambassador and a mentor because in my heart, I'm an athlete and a competitor," said Snyder.

"But I am so proud to be here.

"Last year, I watched from the athlete section as Melissa Stockwell lit the cauldron as the honorary torchbearer, and I was so inspired.

"I am thankful for the opportunity this year to light the cauldron and pass the torch to these athletes, and help them find their place in a movement that means so much to me."

Scott Blackmun, chief executive of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC), hailed the positive power of the Warrior Games. 

"At this time last year, Brad Snyder was only eight months removed from his injury, competing at the Warrior Games," he said.

"Today, he joined us in the Opening Ceremony as a three-time Paralympic Games medalist, which is testament to how powerful this event can be for wounded, ill and injured service members and veterans.

"After competing here, there is no limit to what these men and women will be able to accomplish."

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